THE leader of Colchester Council has rejected a report which says the borough needs to broaden its boundaries to grow economically.

Paul Smith was responding to recommendations from political think tank Localis, which said Colchester has a “stifled” economy which was “hemmed in” by its current boundaries and it needs room to grow.

By contrast, neighbouring Tendring has a “stuck” economy and needs tax cuts to attract businesses and jobs to the district, the report said.

Researcher Jack Airey, who attended Colchester Royal Grammar School and has family living in Wix, co-authored the 64-page report.

He said: “Colchester should be able to petition for border expansions.

They have outgrown their borders and they need to grow faster.”

The report, entitled The Making of an Industrial Strategy: Taking Back Control Locally said Brexit has heightened the need for such change.

It noted a link between “stuck” economies and their support for Brexit, also likening them to American rust belt regions which voted for Donald Trump.

Mr Airey called on councils across Essex to work together on issues such as planning, transport and immigration.

He said: “The Government needs to set up these strategic areas. It could be Essex County Council to take control. Greater control of immigration, more muscular planning. We see Colchester as the fastest growing authority in Essex.

“If you interpret Brexit as a demand to taking back control, this is about giving power back locally, rather than have it in Westminster.

“This should be controlled at a county council level to respond to the wishes of local people.”

However, Mr Smith (Lib Dem) said Colchester annexing parts of its neighbouring councils would create conflict at a time when councils were working well together on a range of matters, such as garden communities.

He added, however, he could see merit in larger strategic authorities but only if they were economically-based, like the Haven Gateway.

Mr Smith said: “What have we in common with Canvey Island?

"Essex County Council granting planning permission for strategic projects would override democratic accountability of our planning committee. That doesn’t sound right to me.”

Political leaders in Tendring were also sceptical.

Clacton MP Douglas Carswell agreed Tendring needs economic help but cited better rail services and better broadband. He said planning issues and housing numbers should be determined locally rather than being foisted on them by Government.

Tendring Council leader Neil Stock said councils already cooperate on economic issues.